Must-Have Quilting and Sewing Notions

What: This pattern for a versatile dual-purpose pincushion includes templates for four pincushion sizes and several spool sizes. Why: Keep spools of thread as well as pins and needles in the same place for easy access.Price: $8.99For more info:indygojunctioninc.com[2]

What: In addition to filling bobbins from thread spools or tubes, this versatile bobbin winder also allows you to fill bobbins directly from your sewing machine without unthreading the needle. Why: Experience sewing with fewer interruptions.

What: Stitch this steam-activated shrinking polyester fabric to the wrong side of your fabric to reduce fabric size by 30 percent and create a textured look.Why: The ruffled texture is trendy, and the shrinking process is fun to watch! If you need inspiration, Superior Threads sells more than 20 quilt and sewing patterns featuring this product. Price: $11.99 (47x18”); $23.50 (per yard)For more info:superiorthreads.com[18]

What: These freezer paper sheets are preprinted with flowers[21] (shown), letters[22], and crazy-patch blocks[23].Why: Tired of tracing? Use these basic shapes instead to save time when appliquéing or creating crazy-patch blocks. Price: $14.50–$24.99For more info: junetailor.com[24]

What: The tiny hook on the Soft Touch Thread Pic slips easily through fabric layers making it perfect for hiding or removing stray threads without leaving marks or punctures in a quilt.Why: If you’re a long-arm quilter or embroiderer, this will become your go-to tool. You can also use it to turn under appliqué edges.

What: Using a notched acrylic template, bobbins, and a tension clip, you can weave a cord of perle cotton, embroidery floss, yarn, or other fibers for quilting, home decorating, jewelry, purses, and more.

What: These needles, available in size Nos. 9–12 for sharps/appliqué, betweens/quilting, and quilting, are specially polished and have ultrathin black plating to make them 30 percent more friction-resistant than other needles.Why: The qualities that make these needles sew more smoothly also prevent rust so they last longer.

What: An ergonomically balanced handle, a razor-edge retractable blade, and a chrome-over-nickel finish are welcome upgrades to the basic seam ripper. Why: Reduce the frustration of ripping out seams—the slightly rounded blade reduces snags and snips.Price: $24.99–$27.99For more info:gingher.com[36]; available online at joann.com[37]

What: The tacky-back Teflon sheet grips your machine’s sewing bed so your quilts moves effortlessly as you free-motion quilt.Why: This notion takes the friction, and so the frustration, out of machine quilting.Price: $29.95For more info:freemotionslider.com[40]

What: This 3/16”-wide cording is covered in fusible web. Simply wrap fabric around the cording, pin the layers to your ironing board, and use the tip of an iron to press the seam allowance closed. Why: Spend less time prepping for pillows and bags and more time sewing.Price: $5.95

What: With an adjustable handle, four temperature settings, and a digital control pad, Dritz’s Petite Press packs a lot of heat for its size.Why: Say so long to schlepping a full-size iron to classes and retreats. Price: $39.99For more info:dritz.com[49]; available online at joann.com[50]

What: From machine piecing and quilting to appliqué and hand embroidery, Aurifil’s Kit Art Amazing Threads collections offer thread that’s up to the task. Each kit features 12 colors of thread chosen by Pat Sloan, Edyta Sitar, or Marianne Byrne. Why: The kits also coordinate well with fabric lines made by the designers. Price: $84–$99For more info:aurifil.com[53]; available online at ihavea-notion.com[54] or cottonpatchquiltshop.com[55]

What: Sewline’s Gift Set contains smooth-writing, water-soluble fabric pencils (including a three-in-one style); easy-to-hold glue-stick pen; pencil eraser; and lead refills. To see it in action, watch our Tool School video[58]. Why: This handy set offers storage and savings for appliqué enthusiasts.Price: $39.99For more info:unitednotions.com[59]; available online at fatquartershop.com[60]